Question 1: Short-term Objective A

$4,963,191.50
Fiscal Year: 2010

1SA. Develop, with existing tools, at least one efficient diagnostic instrument (e.g., briefer, less time intensive) that is valid in diverse populations for use in large-scale studies by 2011. IACC Recommended Budget: $5,300,000 over 2 years.

1.S.A. Funding: The recommended budget was met. Significantly more than the recommended minimum budget was allocated to projects specific to this objective.

Progress: Though several projects are underway to develop efficient screeners and diagnostic tools, the overarching aim of this objective has not yet been achieved.

Remaining Gaps, Needs, and Opportunities: In addition to efficiency, emphasis should be placed on developing cost-effective, performance-based tools, and on validating these across diverse populations. Recent RFAs issued by NIMH and Autism Speaks that focus on parental engagement and early access to care could result in projects that address this objective. Currently, many screening tools exist, and these tools in many cases can be adapted for broader uses, but improved diagnostic tools remain an outstanding need.